Director of Philanthropy

Lutheran Social Ministries of Maryland•Westminster, MD

5d•$87,790 - $109,738•Onsite

About The Position

Join Our Mission-Driven Team at Lutheran Social Ministries of Maryland! We’re currently seeking a passionate and experienced Full-Time Director of Philanthropy to lead fundraising efforts at Carroll Lutheran Village, our award-winning continuing care retirement community, located in Westminster, Maryland. As part of our caring and purpose-driven organization, you’ll play a vital role in advancing our mission and making a meaningful impact in the lives of our residents. This position follows a Monday–Friday schedule from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with occasional evening hours as needed. At Lutheran Social Ministries of Maryland, we’re more than just a workplace—we’re a not-for-profit community that puts people first. We value every resident we serve and every team member who supports them. Here, your work isn’t just a job—it’s a calling! Come see the difference. Apply today and become part of something bigger.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent philanthropy experience.
5+ years of experience in fundraising.
Seeking a fundraising professional with experience in annual gifts, major gifts, planned gifts, and capital campaigns.
Demonstrated discretion, professionalism, and sound judgment in handling sensitive and confidential matters.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively and tactfully with individuals at all levels, including residents, staff, families, external vendors/authorities, and the public.
Strong attention to detail in writing, proofreading, managing priorities, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment, demonstrating a cooperative, respectful, and compassionate approach to colleagues and resident care.
Skilled in the use of standard office equipment and technology.
Maintains professionalism, composure, and a positive attitude when managing challenging situations.
Physically able to move throughout the workday, including travel between campus locations and lifting items up to 10 pounds using safe handling practices.
May be necessary to assist with resident evacuation during emergency situations.
Complies with organizational health and safety requirements, including vaccination policies or valid exemptions

Responsibilities

Contribute to the development of the annual philanthropy strategic plan and budget. Implement and oversee execution of the plan, aligning activities with organizational goals and resources.
Introduce innovative fundraising ideas, trends, best practices, and technologies to enhance philanthropy efforts.
Manage a portfolio of donors and prospects: identify, research, cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships.
Maintain up-to-date prospect and donor information in the database.
Provide personalized stewardship to increase donor engagement and giving through calls, correspondence, visits, and events.
Lead donor-centric fundraising efforts, ensuring thoughtful communication and meaningful connections.
Plan, execute, and evaluate fundraising campaigns and donor events (e.g., seminars, receptions, cultivation/appreciation events). Determine event strategy, theme, goals, and success metrics.
Coordinate all event logistics, including invitations, mailing lists, RSVPs, vendors, and materials in collaboration with internal departments.
Support resident-led fundraising initiatives and ensure accurate handling and processing of funds.
Partner with marketing to promote events and campaigns, ensuring consistent branding and messaging.
Oversee creation and distribution of promotional materials and collateral for fundraising initiatives.
Support timely and accurate gift entry and acknowledgment in Raiser’s Edge.
Ensure donor recognition and stewardship communications are consistent and professional.
Provide data analysis, reporting, and database management to support gift tracking, campaign performance, and strategic planning.
Generate reports to measure fundraising outcomes and donor activity; recommend strategies based on findings.
Ensure accurate documentation of all donor interactions and compliance with department protocols.
Serve as the primary point of contact for donor inquiries and manage sensitive concerns with discretion and care.
Lead planning meetings, team briefings, and committee evaluations.